Day Six Takes Center Stage in the AFL Trade Period
The AFL trade period has entered its second week, and day six brings a fresh wave of negotiations that could reshape several clubs’ outlooks for the season ahead. After a busy first week, trades can resume from 9am AEST today, with fans watching closely as a handful of high-profile players remain in limbo. The focus remains on Essendon, Hawthorn, and the looming front-office conversations that could unlock blockbuster deals.
Essendon, Hawthorn and Zach Merrett: A High-Stakes Triangle
One of the most talked-about negotiations centers on Essendon spearhead Zach Merrett and Hawthorn’s push to land him. Trade expert Tom Morris suggested a third club could enter the fray, which would add a new dimension to a deal that Essendon has signaled would only proceed if the return was exceptional.
According to industry chatter, Hawthorn’s proposal is likely to include their top draft pick (No. 9) plus a future first-round selection. However, insiders warn that those two assets alone may not be enough to sway the Bombers. The Essendon camp has been clear: any deal must be “exceptional” to entice them to trade a premiership-winning midfielder who remains a central figure on their list strategy.
The reality, as framed by Morris, is that Hawthorn may only have one or two legitimate opportunities to pull off a Merrett move before the window closes. While a No. 9 pick and a future first form the basis of Hawthorn’s offer, the Bombers are encouraging clubs to bring more convincing terms to the table if they want Merrett in a new color in 2025.
Christian Petracca to Gold Coast: A Frontrunner, With Trade Radio Framing
Another major storyline revolves around Melbourne star Christian Petracca and a potential move to the Gold Coast Suns. Tom Morris laid out a clear framework: Gold Coast would hand over picks 7 and 8 to Melbourne in exchange for a back-end package that includes pick 24. If those moves go through, Melbourne would be effectively parting with Petracca and Judd McVee in return for a 7, 8 and 24 combo—a compelling exchange that could redefine both teams’ futures.
With Bailey Humphrey out of the deal for Melbourne, Morris indicated that the Suns’ willingness to include 24 back to Melbourne is the critical hinge. This would represent a substantial alteration in both clubs’ rosters and salary structures, potentially opening space for Petracca to seek a new challenge at the Suns while Melbourne retools around other core players.
Other Movements: Ainsworth, Durdin and the Curnow Question
Trade news isn’t limited to Merrett and Petracca. Ben Ainsworth has already secured a move to Carlton, effectively replacing Corey Durdin who joined Port Adelaide. Ainsworth spoke about his excitement for a different role at Carlton and a fresh start that could accelerate the Blues’ development under new guidance.
Meanwhile, Geelong’s pursuit of Charlie Curnow has Carlton mildly unsettled. SEN’s Sam Edmund reported that Curnow still harbors a Geelong preference, though a switch to Sydney isn’t entirely off the table. The forward reportedly could take a substantial pay cut—shaving roughly $900,000 a year over four years—to facilitate a move if it means playing for Geelong and contending for finals glory.
What to Expect on Day Six
Trading is back in earnest, but the market remains unpredictable. AFL teams are weighing a mix of draft assets, young players, and salary considerations as they attempt to close deals that could alter the ladder for the next season. Expect to see continued negotiation chatter, with some moves becoming official as clubs meet the required criteria and deadlines.
Live Coverage and Audience Engagement
ABC Sport’s live coverage will carry day six updates, with trading resuming and questions from listeners fueling the conversation. The atmosphere around the trade period is always electric, driven by fan engagement and expert analysis. Stay tuned as more word comes in throughout the day, and as Dean Bilton joins the broadcast to provide additional insights and reaction.
Key Questions for Clubs
- Will Essendon’s demand for “exceptional” terms deter or attract rival bidders for Zach Merrett?
- Can Hawthorn convince Essendon to part with Merrett using a No. 9 pick plus a future first, or will more pieces be required?
- Is the Petracca-to-Gold Coast scenario the most viable route for both clubs’ lists, or could Melbourne pivot?
- Which bid will ultimately satisfy Carlton and Geelong’s interest in Charlie Curnow?
As day six unfolds, AFL fans should expect a blend of calculated business and bold moves, with the season’s fate potentially shaped by a handful of decisive trades. Let’s see which deals crystallize when the market officially opens and which negotiations will stretch into the final days of the window.
